CalMac indicates new date for return of MV Lord of the Isles
20 May 2025
MV Lord of the Isles (Loti) is expected to finally return to South Uist this weekend.
The Loti will remain as relief on the Islay route when their vessel, MV Finlaggan, is back in action after extended repairs at her annual overhaul at Birkenhead.
Another hold-up with the Finlaggan - this time engine control issues plus the unavailability
of harbour tugs to tow her out of the tidal lock – means her departure has been delayed
to Thursday with the aim of her resuming the Islay run at 7am on Friday.
If successful, the Loti will released on Friday for the Uist service, timings are being arranged.
Meanwhile, repairs to MV Isle of Lewis are progressing well with plans being drawn up for her to resume the Barra service on Wednesday. The ship was sent to Stornoway where a berth was immediately available which would not block other ferry and shipping movements, and the necessary engineering expertise familiar with her engines were ready to expedite repairs.
CalMac later said repairs to MV Isle of Lewis are on track to be completed on Tuesday evening and the vessel is expected to return to service on Wednesday morning. The vessel will make passage from Stornoway and operate a delayed service with a noon departure from Castlebay and the return leaving Oban at 5.30pm. CalMac is reviewing options for a connecting Sound of Barra service to connect with the Isle of Lewis's arrival in Castlebay.
► Barra and South Uist face ferry travel misery for Easter holiday getaway
